I wish I could be in that reporter’s place for a millisecond, that geek’s right knee would be completely ruined... along with the rest of him shortly thereafter...
It is obvious neither one of those fellows know how to fight.
On the other hand, the reporter crumpling to the ground, completely helpless does far more damage politically than if he had retaliated. If he had hit back, then the campaign would have tried to justify the event based on the thought that he was a threat.
Even attacked, he didn't try to defend himself. He was no threat whatsoever.